Learning to paint starts with a small setup and a simple subject, whether you use acrylics, watercolor, or oils. This guide covers the basic process from preparing your surface to cleaning up so you can complete a first painting with confidence.
What you'll need
- Paint (acrylic, watercolor, or oil)
- A few brushes in different sizes
- A canvas, board, or paper
- A palette or plate for mixing
- A cup of water or solvent
- Paper towels or a rag
Step by step
- Set up your workspaceCover your table, arrange your paints and water within reach, and place your surface where the light is good. Wear clothes you do not mind staining.
- Sketch a light outlineDraw the main shapes of your subject faintly with a pencil so you have a guide before any paint goes down.
- Block in the background firstPaint the largest areas and the background before the details, working from big shapes toward small ones.
- Build up the mid tonesAdd the main colors of your subject over the blocked-in areas, mixing colors on your palette before applying them.
- Add details and highlights lastOnce the base layers are set, use a smaller brush for edges, shadows, and bright highlights that make the piece pop.
- Clean your brushesRinse acrylic and watercolor brushes with water and oil brushes with the right solvent, then reshape the bristles and let them dry flat.
Handy tips
- Start with a limited palette of a few colors to learn mixing before buying many tubes.
- Let each layer dry before painting over it to avoid muddy colors.
- Keep a scrap surface nearby to test a color mix before committing it.
Heads up
- Oil paint solvents like turpentine give off strong fumes and are flammable, so work in a ventilated area and store rags safely.
- Some pigments and mediums can be harmful if swallowed, so keep them away from children and pets and do not eat while painting.
FAQ
Which paint is easiest for beginners?
Acrylics are a common starting point because they dry fast, clean up with water, and forgive mistakes by painting over them.
How many brushes do I really need?
Three is plenty to start: a large flat brush for big areas, a medium round for general work, and a small round for details.
How do I fix a mistake?
With acrylics and oils you can let the area dry and paint over it. With watercolor you can lift some color with a damp brush while it is still wet.